Youth and Migration

Introduction to Module 16: Youth and Migration

International migration involves people of all age groups. Youth migration, however, has a series of characteristics that distinguish it from migration of people in other age categories. As they transition to adulthood, some of the factors that influence young people’s decisions to migrate, and the challenges they experience (from pre-departure through to return), are linked to their age. Despite youth migrants making up more than 11 per cent of the overall 281 million international migrants globally, youth migration continues to be underexplored and remains a governance challenge in countries around the world.

Learning Objective

Students will be able to explore current youth migration data and trends, articulate factors that influence young people’s decisions to migrate, discuss the unique experiences and challenges faced by youth migrants, including in relation to their integration in countries of destination.

Proposed Schedule

1-2 class periods (50-100 minutes) plus independent student work.

  • Class period one: introduction, student resource sheet; text-based and data-based questions
  • Class period two: Module One Scenario Interactive Activity: “Exploring integration of migrant youth”

Student Assessment

There are several assessment options in this module and teachers may use some or all of them.

  • Understanding the Basics:

    • Questions based on the Student Resource Sheets

  • Going Further:

    • Text case study: Human rights of undocumented adolescents and youth
    • Data case study: International migrant workers and international students
    • Interactive scenario: Exploring integration of migrant youth

Evidence of Learning

Students will work together to complete a group activity that explores the challenges related to integration of youth migrants in specific countries. Students will complete an oral and/or visual presentation.

Starter Activity

Introduce students to the definition of youth and ask them to discuss why young people might decide to leave their countries.